Month: July 2026

A luxury auction hosted by Wilsons Auctions in Belfast will feature an impressive array of high-end watches, jewellery, and designer handbags. The auction’s highlight is a stunning 18ct white gold Cartier Tank Française watch, alongside acclaimed pieces such as the Breitling Navitimer 01 aviation chronograph and a classic Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. Scheduled for 30 July at 6pm, the event invites both in-person and online bidders, offering collectors the chance to experience these exquisite items firsthand.

Shoplifting and retail offences in the UK have seen a 4% decline in 2026, with 507,086 incidents reported, according to the latest Office for National Statistics figures. In response, police and retail leaders have crafted a strategic action plan focused on improved evidence sharing and support within the criminal justice system. Despite this progress, industry representatives stress that retail crime remains a significant issue, necessitating continued enforcement of new legislation and effective collaboration to safeguard both consumers and employees.

Entries for the prestigious WatchPro Awards are set to close on 7 August, ahead of the eagerly anticipated ceremony on 23 November at One Marylebone. Celebrating innovation and excellence within the UK watch industry, the awards night has become a key date in the industry’s calendar, drawing influential figures together to recognise outstanding achievements. With finalists chosen by industry peers, the awards promise to highlight the dedication and passion driving the sector forward. Sponsorship opportunities are available for those looking to connect with key decision-makers in this dynamic market.

François-Henri Bennahmias has confirmed attempts to acquire De Bethune, yet The 1916 Company has firmly denied the brand was up for sale. With Antoine Pin stepping in as CEO, De Bethune is set to mark its 25th anniversary in 2027 amidst a slowly rising demand for its innovative timepieces. As the luxury watch sector witnesses notable auction successes, industry experts suggest heightened brand awareness will be crucial for De Bethune’s growth and appeal in an increasingly competitive market.

Tudor has launched an exciting pop-up experience for Formula 1 enthusiasts at its Covent Garden boutique, running until August 2026. This immersive installation features interactive attractions such as a racing arcade and a life-sized mannequin of a driver, celebrating Tudor’s partnership with the Visa Cash App Racing Bulls, which began in 2024. Visitors can also explore the brand’s latest watch collections, reflecting its long-standing connection to motorsport since the 1960s. The pop-up exemplifies Tudor’s ‘Born To Dare’ ethos, merging the thrill of racing with luxury watchmaking.

David Morris teams up with Swiss watchmaker Beauregard to unveil the exquisite Lili Bouton, a high jewellery timepiece that redefines femininity in watch design. This bespoke creation showcases a stunning floral motif crafted from pink diamonds and pink opals, exemplifying the growing trend of collaborations between jewellers and artists. As watch brands face competition from the jewellery sector, this unique piece, handcrafted by Swiss artisans, emphasizes the artistry and craftsmanship that lies at the heart of luxury watchmaking. The meticulous attention to detail extends to its presentation box, made in Montreal, ensuring a truly international creation.

The luxury watch retail sector in London faces notable turbulence as high-profile boutiques close their doors amidst a market slowdown. TAG Heuer’s flagship store on Oxford Street has shuttered just weeks ago, alongside the closure of the nearby Longines boutique. Watches of Switzerland Group plans to downsize its retail network by 28 stores, redirecting its strategy towards multibrand showrooms for improved profitability. This trend reflects a broader shift in the industry, as the allure of monobrand stores wanes under the pressures of declining sales and escalating overheads, prompting brands to consolidate their operations toward key flagship locations. As the luxury watch market recalibrates, consumers are seeing fewer stand-alone boutiques but gaining access to a wider array of brands under one roof.

As artificial intelligence reshapes the landscape of various industries, the watchmaking sector is not immune to its influence. Automation is steadily replacing traditional watchmakers in production, sparking discussions on the future of craftsmanship. While some jobs may be lost, the emergence of AI tools presents new opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures, significantly reducing startup costs. Innovations like Swatch’s AI-DADA are empowering consumers to design their own watches, blending technology with personal creativity. With around 7,000 workers in the Swiss watch industry facing reduced hours, the potential for independent watchmakers to thrive in this evolving environment raises questions about the balance between automation and artistry.

UK Protection Ltd is expanding its RAID training courses to a broader market amidst a startling 183% rise in armed attacks on retail in 2026. With £4.5 million in valuables stolen in recent raids, the program aims to equip employees with crucial skills to manage high-stress situations effectively. Led by seasoned professionals, the courses focus on improving situational awareness, communication, and decision-making to enhance security and resilience in the face of escalating retail crime. Andy Fairbanks, CEO of UK Protection, emphasized the necessity for retailers to become vigilant targets to deter criminals.

As F.Hinds celebrates its 170th anniversary, the independent jeweller continues to thrive amid a challenging retail landscape marked by store closures and the rise of e-commerce. With a strong commitment to exceptional customer service and an expansive high street presence—operating 132 stores across the UK—the company sets itself apart as it invests significantly in staff training and development. Retail director Jeremy Hinds highlights positive trends in the sub-£500 watch market, suggesting a resurgence in consumer interest, especially in classic timepieces as shoppers seek a break from smart technology. F.Hinds’ omnichannel approach promises to further bolster its future as it embraces both digital innovation and the timeless appeal of traditional retail.